"It would be hurtful to many Muslims when Wilders calls for a ban on the Koran but the feelings of this group can play no role in determining the facts of the case."

Mr Velleman told the court that most of the politician's remarks seemed to have targeted Islam as an ideology rather than singling out Muslims for abuse.

Mr Wilders is accused of inciting hatred against Muslims and inciting hatred against Moroccans specifically as well as non-Western immigrants.

Since receiving death threats, Mr Wilders has had 24-hour state protection.

A week ago, a centre-right coalition was formed in the Netherlands between the Liberal and Christian Democrat parties, to rule as a minority government dependent on the support of the Freedom Party in parliament.

While the party of Mr Wilders will remain outside government, the new coalition says it plans to ban the full Islamic veil in the Netherlands.